E-Cig Makers Breathe Easier After FDA Proposes Rules

Agency Avoids Heavy-Handed Approach to Regulating Popular Devices

Makers of electronic cigarettes breathed a big sigh of relief Thursday as the Food and Drug Administration avoided a heavy-handed approach to regulating the fast-growing alternative to traditional smokes, likely paving the way for stepped-up investment and even more varieties.

The agency proposed federal rules Thursday that would prohibit sales of the battery-powered devices to anyone under 18 and require manufacturers to submit their products for FDA approval, in addition to disclosing ingredients and warning consumers...

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